Kylian Mbappé defends dedication to Real Madrid after trip with actor girlfriend

Kylian Mbappé has said he remains fully committed to his recovery from a hamstring injury after facing criticism for travelling to Sardinia with the actor Ester Expósito last weekend. Spanish media and Real Madrid supporters have questioned Mbappé dedication to his team before Sunday’s clasico with Barcelona.

Mbappé’s representatives issued a statement on Tuesday denying any wrongdoing. “Part of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team,” the statement read.

Some Madrid fans believe Mbappé is saving himself for France’s World Cup campaign. An online petition has been circulating on social networks, urging Madridistas to call for Mbappé to be sold. “If you believe change is necessary, do not remain silent: sign this petition and defend what you believe is best for the future of the club,” it reads.

Photos of Mbappé alongside Expósito, were posted on social media as Madrid were preparing for the league match against Espanyol last weekend. Real won 2-0 and head coach, Álvaro Arbeloa, later insisted that “each player does what they consider appropriate in their free time” and that it was “none of my business”. However, several of his comments were perceived as indirect criticism of Mbappé, whose 41 goals in 41 matches makes him Madrid’s leading scorer this season.

Madrid have little to play for having been eliminated from the Champions League and the Copa del Rey and they are virtually out of contention in La Liga. They trail Barcelona by 11 points with four rounds remaining, meaning the Catalan club will clinch the title if they avoid defeat on Sunday.

Madrid have yet to say whether or not Mbappé will be fit and available for the clasico. According to Spanish media reports, the 27-year-old went to Madrid’s training centre on a day off to continue his recovery.

According to the Athletic, Mbappé was also involved in a dispute with a member of the team’s coaching staff before they faced Real Betis last month.